The Nigerian Minister of Communications has revealed new insights into the communication tactics employed by armed bandits in the country.
Speaking on Friday, December 12, 2025, the minister explained that criminals are exploiting weak network infrastructure to evade security operations and coordination.
According to the minister, bandits deliberately take advantage of poor cellular coverage by bouncing phone calls across multiple telecom towers.
This technique, he said, makes it difficult for authorities to trace their locations or intercept communications, allowing them to orchestrate attacks with minimal risk of detection.
The minister, addressing reporters in Abuja, warned that the tactic significantly complicates efforts by security agencies to track perpetrators, particularly in remote and rural regions where network coverage is inconsistent.
He emphasized that improving telecommunication infrastructure is vital to both national security and economic development.
Officials noted that the method involves routing calls through several base stations, which effectively masks the origin of the call. Bandits reportedly use this approach during planning and execution of attacks, including kidnappings, armed robbery, and village raids.
Security experts have corroborated the minister’s claims, highlighting that poor network penetration in Nigeria’s northern and central regions creates vulnerabilities.
Analysts argue that inadequate infrastructure, combined with limited surveillance capabilities, gives criminals a technological edge over law enforcement.
The Communications Ministry said it is collaborating with network operators to identify and implement technological solutions that could mitigate these challenges.
The minister also called for enhanced collaboration with security agencies, stressing that the telecom sector has a responsibility to support national safety efforts.
Beyond security concerns, the minister warned that such tactics also affect everyday users, as criminals exploiting networks can disrupt service and compromise legitimate communications.
He urged telecommunication companies to strengthen their systems, deploy additional towers, and improve coverage to reduce the chances of network manipulation by criminals.
The revelation underscores the need for holistic approaches to Nigeria’s security challenges. Observers say tackling armed banditry requires not only military and police action but also investment in infrastructure, intelligence gathering, and community engagement.
Civil society organisations have welcomed the minister’s disclosure, urging the government to prioritise rural network expansion while maintaining stringent regulatory oversight.
They also called for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on safe communication practices in high-risk areas.
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